The month of September is dedicated to Prostate Cancer Awareness. It is a month when all men are encouraged to ensure that they are not one of the possible candidates for causing most deaths among men, prostate cancer. And, it could be avoided.
Every man should have themselves tested depending on their circumstances. All men who have any family history of cancer should take the steps necessary to ensure they are clear of cancer at the age of forty.
All men, at the age of fifty, regardless of family history, should discuss the matter with their doctor and insist in being tested.
There are some signs that may indicate that the prostate is enlarged or cancerous. A man could develop pain in the groin area or while urinating. There could be blood in the urine. But the best warning light is frequent visits to the bathroom. And sadly, there may be no signs at all, which also highlights the need to have a visit with the doctor.
The statistics do not lie. Over 4,000 men died each year in Australia from prostate cancer, while 26,000 who had been diagnosed with prostate cancer are living normal lives today due the research efforts of the Cancer Foundation of Australia.
The Parkes Prostate Cancer Awareness and Support Group, though small in number, are available to advise and support all, including the family, through the process.
A member of the Group may be contacted through the Parkes Neighbourhood Central or one can reach out to the Oncology Nurse at Orange Health Service.